Are you planning a trip to Paris, France? If yes, then this Trip Planner Paris travel guide is a must-read before travelling to Paris. We’ve got the best hotels, attractions and dining options listed and reviewed.
For hundreds of years writers, travellers, photographers, artists and filmmakers have tried to capture the magic of the French capital. Time and time again, they have failed. Trip Planner has put together thei Paris Travel Guide to help you make the most of this beautiful city on you trip.
It may be possible to understand and admire the magnificence of its architectural splendours, the appeal of its long tree- lined boulevards, and the draw of its vast, green parks, but that unique feeling of strolling through this open-air museum on a clear night cannot be reproduced by any medium. Paris is a city that must be experienced first-hand.
Instantly recognisable for its iconic architecture, the City of Light is a vibrant metropolis in constant change. Though perennial monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral are a must, as are world- renowned museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, there are wonders to be found on every corner. From the trendy bars, boutiques, and galleries of Marais to the artsy and bohemian feel of Montmartre to the grandiose elegance along the Seine – there is plenty for all tastes, a full range extending from earthy grit to over-the-top sophistication, but always with an emphatic and inimitable Parisian flavour.
A pioneer in design of all kinds, Paris is consistently at the forefront of innovation in everything from the arts and culture to fashion and gastronomy. Be it for shopping, dining, or sightseeing, it is hard to find a better place than this, the world’s most visited city.
Explore the city like a local and discover the top things to do and see in Paris, as well as the best restaurants, bars, nightclubs, cafes, and hotels the City of Light has to offer, with our comprehensive, up-to-date, and free Paris travel guide.
Top Paris Landmarks
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and Trip Planner has put together the best Paris travel guide you can find to highlight all the best things visitors will need.
La Tour Eiffel
Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France +33 892 70 12 39
Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the world’s most recognizable monuments as well as one of the most visited ones, attracting nearly seven million visitors every year.
It towers over the city at 324 metres (1,063 feet) and weighs over 10,000 tons, making it both an imposing monument and an engineering marvel. Climb all the way to the top for a breathtaking view of the City of Light.
Musée du Louvre
Rue de Rivoli, Paris +33 1 40 20 50 50
The Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world, famous for its many masterpieces: the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, art by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, and many more. The main entrance is covered by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide de Louvre. The French government has collected the 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts that inhabit its endless halls over the past five centuries. Its collection boasts Assyrian, Etruscan, Greek, Coptic, and Islamic art as well as antiquities dating from prehistory to the 19th century.
L’Arc de Triomphe
L’Arc de Triomphe, Place Charles de Gaulle +33 1 55 37 73 77
Commissioned by emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 on account of the French victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the Arc de Triomphe took 30 years to be erected and was then inaugurated by the French king Louis-Philippe in 1836, 15 years after Napoleon’s death. And standing tall at 50 metres (164 feet), it is one of the most famous monuments in Paris.
Located at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of Champs-Élysées, the arch honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Under its vault, lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, Paris +33 1 42 34 56 10
With its 10 million yearly visitors, Notre-Dame was the most visited site in Paris until a devastating fire ravaged its significant part in April 2019, suspending visits inside until further notice. The structure of the building itself was preserved, as well as most works of art that used to be contained inside.
The place has always been the religious centre of the city: the Celts considered the grounds sacred, the Romans built a temple here, the Christians, a basilica, and the last religious structure before the Notre-Dame cathedral was erected was a Romanesque church. The Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame, finished in 1345, is a tectonic masterpiece. The massive structure is 128 meters (420 feet) long and has two 69-meter-tall (226 feet) towers.
Montmartre
Montmarte is one of the most charming and bohemian neighbourhoods in Paris, with the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica and its beacon atop the 130-metre Montmartre hill, being the highest point in Paris.
Montmarte is famous for the cafes and studios of many great artists, such as Dalí, Monet, and Picasso. It is also easily recognizable as the filming location of the movie “Amélie”. Other famous places in the area are the Moulin Rouge and Lapin Agile, downhill to the southwest, in the red-light district of Pigalle.
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, Paris +33 1 53 41 89 00
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, or simply Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica atop the Montmartre hill, the highest point in the city. It offers a wonderful panoramic view of Paris as it extends southward. The church was inaugurated in 1914 and is named after and dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It contains more than 500 statues, and its iconic status makes it a regular sight on film.
Moulin Rouge
82 Bd de Clichy, Paris +33 1 53 09 82 82
A trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the legendary Moulin Rouge. Since 1889, this iconic Parisian landmark has held the title of the most famous cabaret in the world, thanks to its French can-can and the larger-than-life shows featuring expertly choreographed dancing, elaborate sets, and glamourous costumes.
Sip on French Champagne and enjoy dinner in a beautiful Belle Époque venue, and experience the show Féerie, which you are sure to remember for years to come.
Seine River Cruise
Boat cruises on the Seine embark at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and take you through the heart of the city where you can admire the prestigious monuments and landmarks of the city and the stunning architecture from bridge to bridge and bank to bank.
To learn history along the way, plug in your audio guide and choose your language. Come back at night for another tour, and it will be a different Paris before your eyes, yet just as magical.
Palace of Versailles
Place d’Armes, Versailles +33 1 30 83 78 00
The town of Versailles is a wealthy Parisian suburb and municipality, located 20 kilometres outside the city. In the 11th century, Versailles was merely a country village enveloping a castle and the church of Saint-Julien. Today, it is mostly known for the lavish Château de Versailles, which served as home to King Louis XIV and summer palace to Napoleon. It also saw the historic signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 in the now legendary Hall of Mirrors.
Musée d’Orsay
1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, Paris +33 1 40 49 48 14
The Musée d’Orsay was originally a railway station, so the building itself demands a visit. The museum holds a mesmerizing collection of mainly French paintings, sculptures, and photography, including the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, with works from artists such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, Renoir, and Monet.
Best Things To Do In Paris
There is never enough time to take in everything that Paris has to offer. Visiting the sights and museums is immersive, awe- inspiring, and could easily keep you occupied for months. But visitors are best rewarded by simply venturing out into the night. Like most truly great cities, Paris is best experienced after dark and without a fixed route in mind, when the explorer is free to stumble upon an unexpected sight or an undiscovered hole-in-the-wall, drawn in by an alluring scent or some sort of innate feeling. One thing is for sure, you will never run out of things to see, do, and experience in Paris.
To help you save time and money, our travel experts have listed below the best attractions in Paris as well as things you should not miss while visiting the French capital.
La Tour Eiffel
Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France +33 892 70 12 39
Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the world’s most recognizable monuments as well as one of the most visited ones, attracting nearly seven million visitors every year.
It towers over the city at 324 metres (1,063 feet) and weighs over 10,000 tons, making it both an imposing monument and an engineering marvel. Climb all the way to the top for a breathtaking view of the City of Light.
Musée du Louvre
Rue de Rivoli, Paris +33 1 40 20 50 50
The Louvre is one of the largest museums in the world, famous for its many masterpieces: the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, art by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, and many more. The main entrance is covered by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide de Louvre. The French government has collected the 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts that inhabit its endless halls over the past five centuries. Its collection boasts Assyrian, Etruscan, Greek, Coptic, and Islamic art as well as antiquities dating from prehistory to the 19th century.
L’Arc de Triomphe
L’Arc de Triomphe, Place Charles de Gaulle +33 1 55 37 73 77
Commissioned by emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 on account of the French victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the Arc de Triomphe took 30 years to be erected and was then inaugurated by the French king Louis-Philippe in 1836, 15 years after Napoleon’s death. And standing tall at 50 metres (164 feet), it is one of the most famous monuments in Paris.
Located at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of Champs-Élysées, the arch honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Under its vault, lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War. This is one of the must see Paris landmarks on this Paris Travel Guide as is famous around the world.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, Paris +33 1 42 34 56 10
With its 10 million yearly visitors, Notre-Dame was the most visited site in Paris until a devastating fire ravaged its significant part in April 2019, suspending visits inside until further notice. The structure of the building itself was preserved, as well as most works of art that used to be contained inside.
The place has always been the religious centre of the city: the Celts considered the grounds sacred, the Romans built a temple here, the Christians, a basilica, and the last religious structure before the Notre-Dame cathedral was erected was a Romanesque church. The Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame, finished in 1345, is a tectonic masterpiece. The massive structure is 128 meters (420 feet) long and has two 69-meter-tall (226 feet) towers.
Montmartre
Montmarte is one of the most charming and bohemian neighbourhoods in Paris, with the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica and its beacon atop the 130-metre Montmartre hill, being the highest point in Paris.
Montmarte is famous for the cafes and studios of many great artists, such as Dalí, Monet, and Picasso. It is also easily recognizable as the filming location of the movie “Amélie”. Other famous places in the area are the Moulin Rouge and Lapin Agile, downhill to the southwest, in the red-light district of Pigalle.
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, Paris +33 1 53 41 89 00
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, or simply Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica atop the Montmartre hill, the highest point in the city. It offers a wonderful panoramic view of Paris as it extends southward. The church was inaugurated in 1914 and is named after and dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It contains more than 500 statues, and its iconic status makes it a regular sight on film.
Moulin Rouge
82 Bd de Clichy, Paris +33 1 53 09 82 82
A trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the legendary Moulin Rouge. Since 1889, this iconic Parisian landmark has held the title of the most famous cabaret in the world, thanks to its French can-can and the larger-than-life shows featuring expertly choreographed dancing, elaborate sets, and glamourous costumes.
Sip on French Champagne and enjoy dinner in a beautiful Belle Époque venue, and experience the show Féerie, which you are sure to remember for years to come.
Seine River Cruise
Boat cruises on the Seine embark at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and take you through the heart of the city where you can admire the prestigious monuments and landmarks of the city and the stunning architecture from bridge to bridge and bank to bank.
To learn history along the way, plug in your audio guide and choose your language. Come back at night for another tour, and it will be a different Paris before your eyes, yet just as magical.
Palace of Versailles
Place d’Armes, Versailles +33 1 30 83 78 00
The town of Versailles is a wealthy Parisian suburb and municipality, located 20 kilometres outside the city. In the 11th century, Versailles was merely a country village enveloping a castle and the church of Saint-Julien. Today, it is mostly known for the lavish Château de Versailles, which served as home to King Louis XIV and summer palace to Napoleon. It also saw the historic signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 in the now legendary Hall of Mirrors.
Musée d’Orsay
1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, Paris +33 1 40 49 48 14
The Musée d’Orsay was originally a railway station, so the building itself demands a visit. The museum holds a mesmerizing collection of mainly French paintings, sculptures, and photography, including the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, with works from artists such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, Renoir, and Monet.
Catacombs of Paris
1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, Paris +33 1 43 22 47 63
The Catacombs are at once a fascinating and eerie attraction, located right in the heart of Paris. Walk down the many steps to experience this spooky underground cemetery. Here you will find the osseous remains of more than 6 million people, moved to this location – the tunnels of Paris’ former quarries – from an old cemetery.
Disneyland Paris
Bd de Parc, Coupvray +33 1 60 30 60 30
If you can be drawn away from the magical allure of the city, venture to a different type of magic at Disneyland Paris. The resort consists of two parks, Disneyland Park, which consists mainly of the usual rides, restaurants, cafés, and tons and tons of shops, and Walt Disney Studios, which has cinemas and stages on top of that.
Wander down Main Street USA, explore exotic sceneries in Adventureland, or visit your favourite and most beloved characters at Fantasyland. Adventure and wonder await at Disneyland Paris, especially if you have kids, but not exclusively. Tons of fun is waiting to be had by visitors of all ages.
Panthéon
Place du Panthéon, Paris +33 1 44 32 18 00
This neoclassical building in the Latin Quarter was modelled after the Pantheon in Rome. The crypt below is the final resting place of numerous writers, philosophers, poets and scientists, such as Rousseau, Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Emile Zola, Louis Braille, and Marie Curie.
Place de la Concorde
Place de la Concorde, Paris
Place de la Concorde is a massive 84,000m2 square located at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées. It holds historical importance for several reasons: the liberation struggle during World War II brought many battles to Place de la Concorde; during the French Revolution, over a thousand people were beheaded here, many of them famous: Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, and revolutionary Robespierre, just to name a few.
The site is dominated by the 24-metre Obélisque de Louxor, one of Cleopatra’s needles – a gift from Egyptian viceroy Mohammed Ali to Louis Philippe.
Centre Pompidou
Place Georges-Pompidou, Paris +33 1 44 78 12 33
The Centre Georges Pompidou is a vast postmodern and high-tech architectural space that hosts the Musée National d’Art Moderne (the largest modern art museum in Europe), as well as a large public library, and a centre for music and acoustic research.
Its construction was controversial, as it was necessary to demolish the emblematic market that stood at that location at Les Halles, and it was initially despised by many Parisians for its unusual architectural aesthetic, which many thought clashed with the city’s classical and sophisticated style.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
16 Rue du Repos, Paris +33 1 55 25 82 10
Père Lachaise is the largest cemetery in Paris and is reputed to be the most visited in the world. It is a huge and peaceful park and the final resting place of many Frenchmen and foreigners who have enriched French life over the past 200 years: Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Camille Pissarro, Marcel Proust, Molière, Max Ernst, Maria Callas, and Jim Morrison, to name just a few.
Champs-Élysées Paris
Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris
This iconic promenade is nearly two kilometres long and goes all the way from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles de Gaulle, bookended by the Arc de Triomphe and the Musée du Louvre.
It is a lovely walk on any day of the year, and it is the place to be during times of celebration, be it the French National Day or New Year’s Eve. In the month of July, the final stage of the Tour de France takes place right on this very street.
Pont Neuf Paris
Pont Neuf, Paris
Pont Neuf (New Bridge) is, ironically, the oldest bridge over the river Seine in Paris. Its construction dates back to the 16th century, and the iconic bridge stands today at 278 meters (912 feet) long and 28 meters (92 feet) wide, connecting the Ile de la Cité with either side of the Seine.
Montparnasse Tower
33 Avenue du Maine, Paris
The 689-foot tall Montparnasse Tower, also called the “Tour Maine-Montparnasse”, is an office skyscraper standing at 59 storeys tall (plus six underground levels). The fast lift connects the ground floor to the 56th floor at an altitude of 643 feet in just 38 seconds (or 19 feet per second). The top floors and the terrace are only accessible by stairs and provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Le Marais
Le Marais is a historic district situated on the Right Bank of the Seine, spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. It is a trendy district with beautiful architecture dating back to the 17th century. Now home to a vibrant LGBT community, Le Marais is famous for its many museums, art galleries, hip boutiques, lively nightlife, numerous kosher restaurants, and historic sites, such as Paris’ oldest square, Place des Vosges, where you will find the Musée Victor Hugo, site of the writer’s former residence.
La Seine
The river Seine flows 776 kilometres through northern France and offers a great opportunity to become familiar with many of Paris’ impressive monuments while enjoying a boat ride through the heart of the city. A romantic cruise for couples or a fun-filled ride for the whole family, just sit back on the water and enjoy the scenic setting of Paris.
Most boat lines offer similar itineraries and are equipped with an audio announcement system, as the multilingual guides provide commentary on the passing sights in several different languages.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Boulevard Saint-Michel, Paris
The garden of the French Senate is also the second-largest public park in Paris, a recommended place to relax and savour the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the rich palace garden. This is one of the most interesting places in the city to people watch, where you will encounter frolicking families, strolling students, runners, rushing politicians, pickup chess matches, and lovers holding hands.
Louis Vuitton Foundation
8 Av. du Mahatma Gandhi, Paris +33 1 40 69 96 00
Apart from the undeniably breathtaking architecture, the Louis Vuitton Foundation contains a plethora of artwork by various artists from across the globe and hosts different events and workshops. A must-visit for everyone with even the slightest interest in creative expression, in form of art, architecture, or music.
Cheese and Wine Workshops
41 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, Paris +33 1 48 03 98 18
Since France is full of wine lovers, another popular activity on our Paris Travel Guide are wine and cheese workshops. Immerse yourself in the art of making cheese in Paris. Every workshop here is followed by an amazing cheese and wine tasting, and teaches you, after making the cheese yourself, how to pair the right kind of cheese with the respective and most suitable wine – an absolutely great experience for gourmets.
Parc Montsouris
2 Rue Gazan, Paris +33 1 53 90 67 14
Parc Montsouris is one of four large public parks built by Emperor Napoleon III at the cardinal points around the city. The large lake, the cascade, and the extensive lawns make it a favourite among locals in any weather.
Best Restaurants In Paris
Paris’s cuisine surprises as much for its variety and range as it does for its quality and exquisite presentation. From small family-run bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants run by internationally famous chefs, dining here is more art than science.
Sweets, pastries, cheese, and fresh market produce are also an essential part of the Parisian gastronomic experience. Top it off with a treat from a speciality chocolaterie and a fine local vintage in the evening to complete the tour of the best delicacies Paris has to offer.
Below is a list of the best places to eat in Paris, France:
Hôtel du Nord
102 Quai de Jemmapes, Paris +33 1 40 40 78 78
Hôtel du Nord is a classic bistro, made famous in a 1930s movie by Marcel Carné, offering a varied menu, ranging from traditional French cuisine to original dishes to be enjoyed in a lovely location by the canal St Martin.
L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre
3 Carrefour de l’Odéon, Paris
The quartet of standing-room-only wine & small plates bars (the original ‘comptoir’ is now supplemented by ones “de La Mer”, “de la Terre”, and “du Marché”) are a wickedly exciting find if neither timing nor budget allow for in-advance reservations but the city’s culinary excellence beckons.
You will still be treated to the finest produce from France and beyond: Corsican charcuterie, scrumptious Iberian ham croquettes, along with self-serve bread (by boulanger Thierry Breton, who works exclusively with wheat grown and processed in the Ile-de-France region) and Bordier butter (presumed to be the ‘best butter in the world’). You know you are in good hands with legendary head chef Yves Camdeborde, nicknamed “godfather of bistronomy”. Browse through the menu cards hanging over the bar to take your pick of pintxo, and pair them with your choice of finest wines.
Le Voltaire
27 Quai Voltaire, Paris +33 1 42 61 17 49
Le Voltaire is, perhaps, amongst the best places in the 1st arrondissement to come for a quintessentially Parisian brasserie experience. Classic French cuisine with dishes polished to perfection, woven bent-wood chairs outside, and a chic ambience with that elusive je-ne-sais-quoi factor.
Le Potager de Charlotte
12 Rue Louise-Émilie de la Tour d’Auvergne, Paris +33 1 44 65 09 63
Created by two brothers passionate about health, the environment, and animal rights, Le Potager de Charlotte is an intimate spot offering plant-based, gourmet cuisine made from fresh, local, seasonal, and organic produce.
From the presentation to the flavours, you can really see the time and thought they have put into each dish. Le Potager de Charlotte is the kind of restaurant that you don’t have to be vegan to fully enjoy the food, so make sure to pay a visit and book ahead.
Little Tokyo (Rue Sainte-Anne)
Rue Sainte-Anne, Paris
Although Japanese prevails in this aptly named Parisian neighbourhood tucked between the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, there is a plethora of Asian cuisines to choose from: restaurants serving everything from Korean bibimbap to bowls of steamy Vietnamese pho pepper the area, enjoying popularity among both locals and visitors.
Fajitas
15 Rue Dauphine, Paris +33 1 46 34 44 69
Classic Mexican dishes such as quesadillas, nachos, and of course, fajitas dished up in a vibrant Mexican-style setting just a few minutes from the famous Pont Neuf.
Epicure
112 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris +33 1 53 43 43 40
Hailed as one of the best restaurants in Paris, Epicure offers a unique dining experience inside Le Bristol Paris Hotel. Michelin-starred chef Éric Fréchon concocts masterpiece French dishes using unusual combinations of exquisite ingredients, producing such meals as squid roasted with salted butter, puffed spelt, candied eggplant with couscous broth, and lobster coral vinaigrette.
Kong
1 Rue du Pont-Neuf, Paris +33 140 39 09 00
The past few years have turned Le Kong into somewhat of a legend in Paris. Underneath its glass ceiling, you can enjoy some Asian fusion cuisine, grab a drink, and later on dance the night away, all the while enjoying one of the most romantic views over the river Seine.
Alcazar
62 Rue Mazarine, Paris +33 153 10 19 99
Alcazar is a contemporary brasserie located in St Germain-des-Près, where you can enjoy traditional English and French dishes prepared by skilled chefs in a chic atmosphere filled with lots of greenery.
Breizh Café
109 Rue Vieille du Temple, Paris +33 1 42 72 13 77
One of the finest crêpes bretonne in the French capital is, arguably, a Japanese import: Breizh Café was a big hit in the land of the rising sun long before it came to the Marais, where the chain’s very successful outpost serves scrumptious crêpes and galettes made with the finest organic ingredients from Brittany. Michelin-starred Raphaël-Fumio Kudaka is the chef behind the enterprise.
Pierre Gagnaire
6 Rue Balzac, Paris +33 1 58 36 12 50
Pierre Gagnaire is located near the Champs-Elysées and is one of the city’s most solid and appealing restaurants, ranked among the world’s top 50. Expect to pay up for the lunch and dinner menu and make sure you make a reservation well in advance.
Allard
41 Rue Saint-André des Arts, Paris +33 1 43 26 48 23
There are still local neighbourhood restaurants serving excellent food all over Paris. One of them is Allard, in the 6th arrondissement, over on the left bank of the Seine. A traditional 1930’s bistro, with many regulars from the area.
Goumard
9 Rue Duphot, Paris +33 142 60 36 07
Goumard is the right place for seafood lovers. This reputable restaurant has been in business since 1872 and its motto is simply “Everything that comes from the sea”. In fact, the owner buys everything straight from the dock’s local fishermen. Specialities include grilled Breton lobster and scallop carpaccio with oysters.
Le Balzar
49 Rue des Écoles, Paris +33 1 43 54 13 67
Located in the lively Quartier Latin, close to la Sorbonne, Le Balzar is a classic Parisian brasserie, which has, since 1896, been serving traditional French dishes in a gorgeous Art Nouveau interior or at terrace tables. Many of the city’s famous authors have been regulars here, a true seal of approval.
Annapurna
32 Rue de Berri, Paris +33 1 45 63 91 62
This Indian restaurant has been serving the best of North Indian gastronomy ever since 1967. The décor is authentic and stylish. On the menu, you will find tasty dishes like lamb curry, onion bargees, and chicken tikka, as well as a few vegetarian and vegan choices.
Founti Agadir
117 Rue Monge, Paris +33 1 43 37 85 10
Paris has many North African restaurants and one of the best is the Moroccan Founti Agadir. Located on the left bank, it has a fine selection of good value couscous, tajines, and pastilla dishes.
L’As du Fallafel
34 Rue des Rosiers, Paris +33 1 48 87 63 60
On and around Rue des Rosiers you will find many delicious Middle-Eastern and Yiddish/Eastern European specialities. Be sure to make a stop at L’As du Fallafel. This little restaurant claims to have the “best falafel in the world”, and many agree. Expect delicious falafel accompanied by yummy hummus, shawarma, and kebabs, to go or to stay.
Zo, Paris
13 Rue Montalivet, Paris +33 142 65 18 18
Zo is a cosy restaurant that offers Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant has an exotic and welcoming décor and is very lively on the weekends. On the menu, you will find dishes ranging from sushi and pizza to steak and pasta.
Pizza Mancini
20 Rue Bachelet, Paris +33 1 42 23 40 07
This quaint little Italian restaurant tucked away in Montmartre offers Neapolitan cuisine at very affordable prices. Pasta, gnocchi, and pizza with a homemade sauce prepared from scratch in a no-nonsense setting – perfect spot for a quick bite on your visit to this historic district.
Roomies Etienne Marcel
14 Rue du Cygne, Paris +33 1 42 60 30 11
Hamburgers might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Paris dining, but Roomies gives you the chance to customize your own burger with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The friendly staff will gladly guide you through the process in good English. At just a 10-minute walk from Notre Dame, it is well worth a visit.
Rouge Bis
2 Rue de Bruxelles, Paris +33 1 40 16 45 36
Rouge Bis is renowned for its friendly and welcoming staff, and its location, just across from the Moulin Rouge, makes an ideal place to catch a bite before a show. You can sample some local dishes or have something lighter, like a pre-cabaret sandwich or salad.
Boutique yam’Tcha
4 Rue Sauval, Paris +33 1 40 26 06 06
A favourite among local foodies, Yam’Tcha’s head Chef Adeline Grattard creates dishes that mix French tradition with an Asian flair, resulting in combinations like scallops with peppers and black soya. In keeping with the mixed feeling of the place, for refreshments, you can choose from a variety of Asian teas or French wines.
La Maison de Verlaine
39 Rue Descartes, Paris +33 1 43 26 39 15
La Maison de Verlaine is located in the Latin Quarter and is one of the best deals around. A traditional French 3-course meal can be as little as €20. The waiters are very attentive, funny, and are more than willing to guide you through the menu. The duck salad and homemade chocolate mousse come very highly recommended. It is possible to get a table without a reservation, but to be on the safe side, it is recommended that you call ahead.
Best Cafes In Paris
Fresh baguettes and croissants with a strong espresso in the morning, aromatic teas or pastis in the afternoon, a local vintage with friends in the evening, it’s never the wrong time to visit a cafe in Paris. They are a quintessential part of the Parisian experience and the perfect vantage point from which to engage in a lazy afternoon of people-watching. The wide variety of drinks and the occasional live music round off the cafe experience to perfection.
Café de Flore
172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris +33 1 45 48 55 26
This famous literary cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés boasts some very illustrious names among its former clientele, including Simone de Beauvoir, Albert Camus, and Jean-Paul Sartre. Getting a table among all the tourists might be a challenge, but with the Café de Flore’s history and status in popular culture, it definitely deserves a visit.
Ladurée
21 Rue Bonaparte, Paris +33 1 44 07 64 87
La Maison Ladurée is an iconic, upscale restaurant and tea room specializing in French macarons. At this location in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you can indulge in scrumptious French pastries and true culinary masterpieces fit for royals. Head here for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, and be sure to take some of these decadent desserts back home as they do make a nice gift.
KB CaféShop
53 Avenue Trudaine, paris +33 1 56 92 12 41
A speciality coffee pioneer in Paris, KB offers their own roasted coffee from worldwide sources, which is served in a cosy ambience. Everything you eat here is freshly handmade by the team in house. The helpful staff serves baguettes, sandwiches and desserts like freshly made muffins, cakes and tartes. This is also a great place to visit for breakfast.
Le Bistrot du Peintre
116 Ledru-Rollin Avenue, Paris +33 1 47 00 34 39
Le Bistrot du Peintre’s interiors are rich in wooden furniture that replicates the Art Nouveau designs of the start of the 1900s. The menu includes salads, meat cuts platters, and cheese as appetizers, as well as oeuf meurette – poached eggs in red wine – salmon tartare and entrecôte.
Le Select
99 Boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris +33 1 45 48 38 24
Another famous literary cafe (and former hangout of Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and Henry Miller), Le Select remains true to the spirit it has had since 1925, despite its popularity among tourists and the high prices to match. It is still a favourite among locals and always displays an authentic Parisian charm.
Aux Folies
8 Rue de Belleville, Paris +33 6 28 55 89 40
Aux Folies is a traditional Paris bar & cafe that has fully embraced the city’s multi-cultural present. Once the home of Edith Piaf and Maurice Chevalier, the district of Belleville now mixes Chinese and North African influences, reflecting the effect immigrant cultures have had on the city and its culture. Aux Folies is a popular spot for both coffee and cocktails, and its spacious terrace allows for some people-watching.
Charbon Café
109 Rue Oberkampf, Paris +33 1 43 57 55 13
Quiet and laid-back by day and a trendy centre for nightlife after dark, Rue Oberkampf hosts several cafes that like Charbon Café transform into chic bars at night. Originally a dance hall built around 1900, this spacious cafe attracts a hip urban crowd.
Café de la Paix
5 Place de l’Opéra, Paris +33 1 40 07 36 36
For a taste of sophistication, check out the opulent Café de la Paix, located next to and designed by the same architect as the Opera Garnier. As part of Le Grand Hotel, you can enjoy the luxurious interiors or relax on the terrace to indulge in some people watching while savouring some French dishes.
Strada Café Paris
94 Rue du Temple, Paris +33 1 44 61 09 28
Strada Café is a small café where the friendly staff serves great breakfast, brunch, and other refreshments. On the menu, you will find homemade soups, pies, freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, and of course, croissant. The atmosphere at this French café can be described as cosy and simple.
Breizh Café Paris
109 Rue Vieille du Temple, Paris +33 1 42 72 13 77
One of the finest crêpes bretonne in the French capital is, arguably, a Japanese import: Breizh Café was a big hit in the land of the rising sun long before it came to the Marais, where the chain’s very successful outpost serves scrumptious crêpes and galettes made with the finest organic ingredients from Brittany. Michelin-starred Raphaël-Fumio Kudaka is the chef behind the enterprise.
Best Bars In Paris
The nightlife in Paris is intense and very diverse, offering options to satisfy all tastes. From high-tech dance clubs to mellow jazz haunts – there is always something to fit your mood.
Trendy and popular bars abound, serving high-quality drinks with a good mix of people and music, and it is not uncommon to find live DJs. For a unique dose of vibrant local entertainment, you can’t beat Paris’s famous cabaret venues. Here are some of the best spots for a fun night out in Paris, France:
Lulu White Drinking Club
12 Rue Frochot, Paris
Intimate speakeasy, in the red-light district of Pigalle, offering meticulously prepared cocktails, absinthe drinks, and regular live jazz concerts in a charming atmosphere.
10 BAR Odeon
10 Rue de l’Odéon, Paris +33 1 43 26 66 83
Le 10 BAR Odéon is a cosy and characterful little bar, near the Palais du Luxembourg, popular for its homemade sangria. Take a seat at one of its street-facing tables or grab a chair in its dark and rustic interior, decorated with old posters and a jukebox.
Supersonic
9 Rue Biscornet, Paris +33 1 49 23 41 90
Intimate concert hall and bar in a former New York loft-like factory hosting free rock concerts by up-and-coming bands.
Aux Folies
8 Rue de Belleville, Paris +33 6 28 55 89 40
Aux Folies is a traditional Paris bar & cafe that has fully embraced the city’s multi-cultural present. Once the home of Edith Piaf and Maurice Chevalier, the district of Belleville now mixes Chinese and North African influences, reflecting the effect immigrant cultures have had on the city and its culture. Aux Folies is a popular spot for both coffee and cocktails, and its spacious terrace allows for some people-watching.
Favela Chic
18 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, Paris +33 140 21 38 14
Favela Chic is an eclectic and lively Brazilian bar & restaurant offering a mix of French and Brazilian food, cocktails, and lots of music until the early hours of the morning.
La Perle
78 Rue Vieille du Temple, Paris +33 1 42 72 69 93
La Perle is a favourite among “bohemian chic” Parisians as well as international stylists, artists, models, and fashionistas. It is a perfect place to start your evening or to just have a conversation over a glass of wine. Though it is often crowded, it has a homey and friendly atmosphere.
Moulin Rouge
82 Bd de Clichy, Paris +33 1 53 09 82 82
A trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the legendary Moulin Rouge. Since 1889, this iconic Parisian landmark has held the title of the most famous cabaret in the world, thanks to its French can-can and the larger-than-life shows featuring expertly choreographed dancing, elaborate sets, and glamourous costumes.
Sip on French Champagne and enjoy dinner in a beautiful Belle Époque venue, and experience the show Féerie, which you are sure to remember for years to come.
Buddha-Bar
8-12 Rue Boissy d’Anglas, Paris +33 1 53 05 90 00
This temple-like establishment is still very popular for its ambience at the cocktail bar. Top DJs deliver mood-setting tunes and the globally famous venue has spawned franchises all over the world.
Le Nouveau Casino
109 Rue Oberkampf, Paris +33 1 43 57 57 40
This is a famous venue that keeps the party going until dawn, both in the bar downstairs and in the medium-size dance hall upstairs. But Le Nouveau Casino is most renowned as a great venue for small concerts, and that is where it really shines.
Point Éphémère
200 Quai de Valmy, Paris +33 1 40 34 02 48
Point Éphémère is a dynamic arts centre that puts together a rich program of expos, concerts, and performances in a large space that also includes a bar and restaurant. It is located along the trendy Canal Saint-Martin, an area colonized by young creative workers, seduced by its lazy charm.
Rex Club
5 Boulevard Poissonnière, Paris +33 1 42 36 10 96
This renowned electro club has drawn crowds since the mid-1980s. It is home to a terrific sound system with top international acts. Expect long lines at the doors, especially for Friday night events.
Le Truskel
12 Rue Feydeau, Paris +33 1 40 26 57 42
At Celtic micro club Truskel, you can dance every night to the beats of indie pop, punk rock, and electro-pop. Regularly hosting indie concerts, and located right in the heart of the city, it is the perfect place for a slightly alternative night out.
Galway Irish Pub
13 Quai des Grands Augustins, Paris +33 1 43 29 64 50
Every city has one, and Paris is no exception. Irish Pubs offer the same familiar and friendly atmosphere all over the world. This pub also offers all major sporting events on its 13 TV screens, live music 5 nights a week, a mix of classic Irish and British fare, and of course, a range of draft beers.
Batofar, Paris
11 Quai François Mauriac, Paris
This long-lived nightclub offers a musical variety you would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere, featuring hip hop, techno, rock, and much more. Its location on the Seine river (literally) boasts an unmatched view, as well
VIP Room
188 bis Rue de Rivoli, Paris +33 1 58 36 46 00
VIP Room is exactly as glamorous and exclusive as it sounds. It is where celebrities go to mingle and to be seen. If you have ever wondered what Studio 54 would be like with a Parisian flair, this is it.
Paris Shopping
Shopping in Paris is synonymous with famous designers and luxurious brands – the names Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Christian Dior immediately come to mind. But you will also find more affordable options to match your budget in the huge department stores or many popular neighbourhood markets. Take your pick of fashion, food, books, or souvenirs. Below is a list of the best places for shopping in Paris:
Le Bon Marché
22 Rue de Sèvres, Paris +33 1 44 39 80 00
Founded in 1838, Le Bon Marché was the first-ever department store. Tradition and prestige accompany this prominent retail establishment, the top destination for fashion and style. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, accessories, jewellery, and houseware comprise the major departments. There is also an impressive food hall, which is definitely worth a visit.
Galeries Lafayette
40 Boulevard Hausmann, Paris +33 1 42 82 34 56
The Galeries Lafayette is an upscale French department store chain with more than 50 locations in France as well as in Berlin, Dubai, and Jakarta. Its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann, famous for its opulent interior along with its magnificent Neo-Byzantine stained-glass dome, houses more than 3500 of the most prestigious designer and cosmetics labels, as well as the largest European space entirely devoted to men’s fashion. Plus, a contemporary art gallery, a variety of cafes and eateries, and a rooftop terrace for a breathtaking view of Paris.
Shakespeare & Company
37 Rue de la Bûcherie, Paris +33 1 43 25 40 93
It might be difficult to let the magic of Shakespeare & Company truly sink in given the abominable number of tourists crowding the tiny space these days, but the place is still definitely worth a visit.
“Be Not Inhospitable to Strangers Lest They Be Angels in Disguise,” seen above the reading room entrance are words the store lives by, along with its founding motto: “Give what you can; take what you need.” Throughout its 70-year existence, the shop has accommodated young writers and artists in exchange for helping out, and an estimated 30,000 people have reportedly slept on the beds tucked between its bookshelves since its opening in 1951, but one doesn’t have to spend the night to enjoy the welcoming public reading room.
In 2016, the shop published its own history with contributions from the likes of Allen Ginsberg, Jim Morrison, and Ethan Hawke.
Le Carrousel du Louvre
99 Rue de Rivoli, Paris +33 143 16 47 10
Le Carrousel du Louvre is a diverse underground shopping precinct adjoining the famous museum. Whether you are looking for music, gifts, perfumes, or clothing, you will find a number of well-known stores that deliver quality merchandise and ease of purchase.
Along the Seine
One of the most charming shopping activities in Paris consists of walking along the rows of bookstalls perched against the parapet of the Seine River. Here, if you have time and good bargaining skills, you may find some ancient and valuable tomes or collections of old stamps.
Champs-Élysées
This charming tourist strip is lined with fast-food chains, banks, airline offices, souvenir shops, cinemas and malls, such as the futuristic Drugstore Publicis near l’Arc de Triomphe, or Gallerie Marchande des Champs-Elysées near Georges V. The Guerlain Parfumerie, with its turn-of-the-century elegance and curved staircase, as well as the neo-classical Virgin Megastore, huge retail heaven for recorded music and books, are highlights. This is one of the best things to do in Paris and is right in the centre of town with easy access to many Paris landmarks.
Les Halles and Marais
101 Porte Berger, Paris +33 1 44 76 87 08
Located in the city centre, right between the Louvre and Notre Dame, the shopping mall Forum des Halles features a heap of good shopping spots in a fascinating and crowded underground complex. This is a good source of affordable clothing. Not far away, Le Marais carries many handicraft and antique shops and is always a safe bet to find some unique artefacts.
Les Grands Boulevards
This is one of the city’s most popular shopping areas, home to prestigious department stores such as Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. They are remarkable as much for the wide range of items sold as for their Art Nouveau architecture. You will find a world of ready-to-wear, with appealing boutiques and affordable brands. A good place to start is with a walk from the beautiful Opéra Palais Garnier down to the stores on Boulevard Hausmann.
Area Surrounding Place Vendôme
Right off Rivoli is the beautiful Place Vendôme, where jet-setters and millionaires buy their jewellery. This is “the” area for renowned Haute Couture and luxury goods. From here, you can enjoy a walk down to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigne, where the superb boutiques display their goods out of baroque windows.
Épicerie Causses
55 Rue Notre Dame de Lorette, Paris +33 1 53 16 10 10
Offering quality seasonal produce, hams and cheeses, along with preserves, pieces of bread, and other delights, Causses might be the city’s best “alimentation generale”. It is also affiliated with Esprit Cuisine, where you can learn how to cook delicious meals with the ingredients you have just bought.
La Vallée Village
3 Cours de La Garonne, Serris +33 1 60 42 35 00
La Vallée Village is an outdoor shopping centre, located 35 minutes east of Paris city centre and just five minutes from the Disney Parks. Discover superb price reductions on a selection of the leading French and international luxury fashion and lifestyle brands in over 100 outlet boutiques.
Goldymama
99 Rue Orfila, Paris +33 1 40 30 08 00
Paris is a goldmine for vintage clothing, but if you can only hit one spot, make it Goldymama. This small boutique is packed with well-preserved items from yesteryear, making it the perfect place to shop for the 1950s skirts and suits, or indeed, the wacky 1970s shirts you have always wanted. If you are looking for truly unique gifts, look no further.
Marché aux Puces de Clignancourt
Porte de Clignancourt, Paris
This world-renowned flea market in the North part of Paris attracts over 70,000 Parisians every weekend. Here you can find terrific bargains on everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture.
Souffle Continu
22 Rue Gerbier, Paris +33 1 40 24 17 21
Souffle Continu is an independent record store, near the legendary Père-Lachaise Cemetery, stocking up on new releases as well as a vast and eclectic collection of re-releases on vinyl, DVDs, and CDs.
Artazart
83 Quai de Valmy, Paris +33 1 40 40 24 00
Combining Paris’s love of books with its passion for design, Artazart is a palace of coffee-table tomes, with everything from fashion and photography to illustrations and children’s books. The small art gallery section also showcases works by local talents.
L’ABC du Parfum
7 Rue Vineuse, Paris +33 6 43 64 16 55
L’ABC du Parfum is exactly what it sounds like. Here, you can learn about the basics of fragrances, participate in a workshop, and go on a perfume tour. You can even take home a perfume of your own creation.
Album Comics
67 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris +33 1 53 10 00 60
The king of comics in Paris, Album Comics carries everything from American DC and Marvel comics to popular Japanese manga to the much-beloved French BD, plus all sorts of geek-chic merchandise. Book signings are also held here, and it is not uncommon to find collectables and limited edition items.
Trip Planner Paris Tourist Information
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Passport/Visa
France can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paris (FAQs)
What is the best time to visit Paris?
As one of the most visited cities in the world, it is safe to say that there is never really a bad time to visit the French capital. The weather is best in summer, but crowds are by far the biggest. Autumn is also highly recommended for its pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and stunning foliage.
Having said that, the best time to visit Paris is from June to October.
How many days do you need in Paris?
In order for you to visit the main sights and attractions in Paris, walk around the city and explore its characterful arrondissements, you will need from 4 to 5 days.
Is Paris dangerous?
Despite being a major European capital and one of the most visited cities in the world, Paris is a fairly safe city for travellers. However, as with most main tourist destinations, pickpocketing is the biggest concern here. So be careful with your belongings when taking public transport and around the city’s main attractions.
Is Paris expensive?
Yes, Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world, especially when it comes to hotels. Average spending in the City of Light is high, not only when compared to other continents, but also other European cities.
Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport
Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris +33 1 70 36 39 50
Paris is served by two major airports. Most international flights arrive at Roissy Charles de Gaulle (CDG), 30 kilometres from the city centre. Orly is 18 kilometres from the city centre. A third airport, Paris Beauvais, is mainly served by low cost airlines.
Roissybus offers a direct bus from the airport terminals every 15 minutes and arrives at the city centre (Opéra) after a 45- 60 minute journey.
One of the cheapest and fastest options (30 minutes) is the underground RER B to Gare du Nord running every 10-15 minutes, from where you can connect to Paris’ metro network.
Air France buses go to Porte Maillot and Etoile every 15 minutes, and taxis can be found near the terminals’ baggage collection area exits. A taxi from the airport to the city centre takes around 30-40 minutes and should cost €45-50.
Paris Orly Airport
Paris Orly Airport, Paris +33 1 70 36 39 50
Paris Orly Airport is located 18 kilometres from the city centre. From Orly, the automatic metro Orlyval takes you to RER B Antony station from 6am to 11pm. The journey takes about half an hour. The other cheaper option are the airport shuttle buses going to RER C Pont de Rungis station. As for buses, the Orly bus takes you straight to Opéra station. The bus takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Paris Beauvais Airport
Paris Beauvais Airport, Paris +33 8 92 68 20 66
Paris Beauvais, is mainly served by low cost airlines. A shuttle service is organized between the terminals and Paris-Porte Maillot. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Public Transport
+33 8 92 69 32 46
The city’s local transport system is cheap and efficient. The bus, underground (metro) and commuter train system (RER) are divided into five zones. Tickets are valid on both buses and trains, and can be purchased from the stations and in kiosks. Travel cards, ranging from one to five days, are also available at the airport, at underground stations and from tourist information offices.
Batobus
Batobus is a boat service through the heart of Paris, with stops at eight key locations along the river Seine. It functions as a hop-on-hop-off service, and tickets are sold for one day, two days or one year.
Taxi
Taxis can be hailed at stands or on the street, but they can be hard to find, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. Beware of fake cabs at the airports.
Taxis Bleus
+33 1 49 36 10 10 www.taxis-bleus.com
Alpha Taxis
+33 1 45 85 85 85 www.alphataxis.com
Post
52 rue du Louvre, Paris +33 1 40 28 20 00
Stamps are available from kiosks and news agents. For mail overseas, it is advisable to visit a post office. The central post and sorting office of the Louvre is open 24 hours a day.
Main Post Office:
Pharmacy
84 Avenue des Champs Elysées, Paris +33 1 45 62 02 41
Pharmacies are either open late or around the clock. Pharmacie Les Champs Elysées:
Electricity
230 V
50 Hz
Plug types C and E
Telephone
Country code: +33 Area code: 1
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